I didn't see any topics of this already created, so I decided to start one here. Since a lot of us use how to books occasionally or often I thought it would be good to list any books that have helped you learn something about fiction writing. It could be anything from general writing advice or more specific topics like character creation, dialogue, plotting, etc.

Stephen King's On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft is a book I would highly recommend. King examines his own writing process, and gives advice to beginning writers as well. He used to be a high school English teacher, and judging from this book, I would say he was a good one.

“Good writing should be smooth, clear and short, and the art of saying little in much must be avoided at all costs.”
--Benjamin Franklin

I liked Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott. Very accessible and encouraging. Helpful ideas, too.

Probably my favorite writing book is If You Want to Write by Brenda Ueland. It's alittle outdated, but very inspiring. She really captures why people should write, no matter what. So, it's not so much instruction, but inspiration.

This book covers the small details that can add the finished touch to any story. It has the ability to deepen a stories structure by teaching a writer how to apporach theme, suspense, and tension. It can add to characters by allowing a writer to understand how epiphany plays a role in showing change and growth. It talks about prologues and epilogues and shows when and how to use them. This book will give a writer an ability to notice the small details that make a story feel complete and the ability to make those details blend seamlessly with the tale being told.

I just read the first chapter of the "Fire in Fiction" by Donald Maass tonight... it's just about how to make your readers connect to your protagonists. I can tell it is going to be a quality read from just the first chapter. Although it might make your books cliche, it will definitely make them more readable and publishable.

I've already had a few ideas that I need to incorporate into my WIP and into my "completed" manuscript.

I would add Donald Maass' new book, Fire in Fiction. For a more experienced writer, I think it's even better than the Breakout Novel book.

Thanks Katrina, I'll check it out. The night after I finished my first draft, I had an amazing dream in which I talked to Donald Maass for a really long time about my book (and I'm someone who almost never remembers his dreams). I am a little disappointed that Nathan didn't show up, but I know he's super busy. Still ... you know? What's up with that? I mean blogs and forums are great, but he's missing out on a major new avenue for reaching new authors by skipping out on our dreams.